Andrew Kalashnikov (born Andrei, last name is real), 24 y.o. Russian photographer/artist. Saint Petersburg, Russia. I take dark mysterious pictures. My portfolio includes works for Rolling Stone magazine, The Printed Blog USA, promo shots for Tricky new album era, several advertising campaigns. Some of my photos were featured by Rick Owens in the window display at the Printemps store Paris.

your motivation, inspiration + influences
Most artists are influenced by all of their surroundings so am I. Well, I always try to experiment with genres. I suppose for any artist it is important to move forward, experiment with style. I like Peter Lindbergh editorials. But now prefer Carter Smith simplicity working on fashion shoots.

when did you start photography
Really I don’t remember. But I was always interested in visual arts. For a while I did nothing, just hanging out with people who wasted their time. Photography classes at my university strengthened my interest and I wanted to develop these skills by attending additional coursework. Then I got myself together and started to make first sessions under my terms.

film or digital
Digital. Sold my film camera many years ago when I was broke, before I started to work in photography.

i’m dreaming of…
One of the things is to be represented by photography agency abroad. I will be provided with better locations than in Russia, could show my ability to work at a very high level of quality. So I could be booked for the celebrities‘ editorial assignments.

the darkness is…
Shit. But beyond any dark clouds the sun is always shining.

what’s next?
Certainly, already have new goals to accomplish. Don’t want to talk way too much.
New mystical editorial is out in October. It was shot near the waterfall, witchcraft theme. Should say, my arm and leg were injured when I fall into the wild river.
Maybe it may sound dissappointing for someone but I don’t see my life only spinning around photography. Wish I would live somewhere between Europe and US doing creative stuff, touch wood.

last but not least: your question
If you didn’t reach your goals so what are you waiting for?